Policies

Use of electroimmobilisation on animals

Purpose To provide guidance to veterinarians and other users on the use of electroimmobilisation on animals in Australia. To advocate for the regulation of sale and access to electroimmobilisation devices […]

Exotic pet and wildlife trade

Purpose This document is intended to raise awareness of biodiversity, biosecurity and welfare risks associated with the legal and illegal trade in wildlife. This policy is mainly focused on the […]

Forced Swim Test and Forced Smoke Inhalation Experiments

Purpose To advocate for cessation of forced swim tests and nose-only forced smoke inhalation experiments, and for a phase-out of whole body smoke inhalation experiments as soon as possible. Policy […]

Post-racing transition and retraining: Ensuring effective aftercare for retired horses

Purpose This policy aims to provide guidance for the transition of horses from racing to optimise both the horse’s welfare and human health and safety. This policy can be used […]

Medication of dogs and cats for air transport

Purpose: To assist veterinary practitioners to address requests from clients for sedation of pets prior to travel. Policy  Veterinary guidance on the needs of animals should be sought by caregivers […]

Farming of native fauna

Purpose To provide a basis for AVA advocacy on issues related to commercial farming of native fauna. Policy As Australian native fauna have intrinsic value and ecological significance, and require […]

Sustainability: implications for animal production, companion animals and veterinary practice

Purpose To inform about key concepts and current concerns regarding ecosystem sustainability; to highlight those aspects of most relevance to the veterinary profession; and to provide a basis for any […]

Infection prevention and control in veterinary workplaces

Purpose To inform members of the veterinary profession about the key principles of infection prevention and control in veterinary workplaces, and point to useful further resources. Policy It is essential […]

The veterinarian’s role in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community companion animal health and management programs

Purpose This policy aims to provide guidance for veterinarians providing veterinary services and/or assisting with the management of dogs and cats kept as companion animals within Aboriginal and Torres Strait […]

The role of veterinarians in emergency animal management

Ratification Date: 11 Dec 2024 Policy Suitably experienced veterinarians must be engaged by governments and relevant agencies in the development and implementation of emergency preparedness, response and recovery plans, to […]